All about the name

Raven

Female

« Raven is an American given name derived from the Old English word 'raven', meaning the large, black bird known for intelligence and adaptability. It has gained popularity due to its powerful and mystical associations with wisdom and transformation in many cultures worldwide. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Raven is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the Old English word "raven," which refers to the large, black bird known for its intelligence and adaptability. The name Raven has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among parents who are drawn to its powerful and mystical associations. In many cultures around the world, ravens are considered symbols of wisdom, transformation, and creativity. They are often associated with ancient myths and legends, such as those found in Norse mythology, where Odin, the god of war and wisdom, had two ravens named Huginn and Muninn who flew out each day to gather information and report back to him. Despite its origins, Raven is not a traditional or historical name. It was relatively unknown until it began to gain popularity in the mid-20th century. Today, however, Raven has become increasingly common as a given name for both boys and girls. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Raven was among the top 1,000 names for both sexes in the United States between 2005 and 2014. Overall, Raven is a captivating and meaningful name choice that carries with it a rich history of cultural symbolism and mythology. Whether inspired by the intelligence and adaptability of the bird or the ancient myths associated with its name, parents who choose Raven for their child are selecting a powerful and unique moniker that will stand out for years to come.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Raven since 1880

Total births
43,309
Total since 1880
Peak year
1993
2,285 births
in 2023
841
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+44%
vs previous 5 years